A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Portland or Honolulu?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Portland and Honolulu can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Portland

Portland is a tree-lined, nature-filled, and scenic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Portland and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland or Honolulu?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Portland. While Portland is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland is known for its music and small town charm. Honolulu is more touristy than Portland and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Portland different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Honolulu and Portland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland or Honolulu?

Honolulu is very popular for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is the Food Better in Portland or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Honolulu is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Honolulu has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Music?

Portland is a city with good options for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

Honolulu is a world class resort vacation destination. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is very popular for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Honolulu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Honolulu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland or Honolulu?

Honolulu is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Honolulu is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland and Honolulu are both great destinations for backpackers.

Portland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Honolulu is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Students?

Portland is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

Is Portland or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Portland and Honolulu.

Portland has some public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

You'll find some public transit in Honolulu, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Portland or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Portland and Honolulu are great when it comes to walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

Honolulu is a very walkable city. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

For even more information, also check out Is Portland Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Portland?

How long in Portland or Honolulu?

Both Portland and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Portland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Portland. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Honolulu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Portland. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Portland if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Honolulu.

One day in Portland or Honolulu?

The city of Portland offers nightlife and live music. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Honolulu is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Portland or Honolulu?

Portland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portland, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Honolulu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portland or Honolulu?

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Honolulu, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Portland or Honolulu?

Portland is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Portland and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Portland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Portland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Portland and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu than you might in Portland.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Portland Expensive? and Is Honolulu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland or Honolulu?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Portland and Honolulu, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Portland or Honolulu?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Portland or Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland and Honolulu. The summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

Portland is cooler than Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland usually receives more sunshine than Honolulu during summer. Portland gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Portland usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Portland gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portland or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portland as well as Honolulu. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Portland is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the autumn, Portland often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Portland gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Portland usually gets more rain in October than Honolulu. Portland gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Portland are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Honolulu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. In January, Portland is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 40°F (4°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Portland usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during winter. Portland gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Portland. In January, Portland usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Portland gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portland or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Portland during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Portland is much colder than Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Portland. In the spring, Portland often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Portland gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Portland usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Portland gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Portland